World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) boss Vince McMahon has resigned from his position as executive chairman of TKO, WWE’s parent company, following allegations of sexual misconduct by former employee Janel Grant. The 78-year-old McMahon and another ex-executive, John Laurinaitis, were accused of sexual assault and trafficking by Ms. Grant.
McMahon vehemently denies the allegations, stating that Ms. Grant’s lawsuit is filled with lies and distortions. In a statement, he announced his immediate resignation, citing respect for the WWE Universe, TKO business, and its stakeholders. The resignation comes after the alleged victim accused McMahon and Laurinaitis of manipulating her and forcing her into a physical relationship for employment promises.
Ms. Grant’s lawsuit claims that McMahon pressured her into a sexual relationship, hacked into her banking details, and trafficked her to entice wrestling talent. WWE president Nick Khan confirmed McMahon’s resignation in a staff memo, clarifying that McMahon would no longer be associated with TKO Group or WWE.
This isn’t the first time McMahon faced such allegations; in 2022, an investigation was conducted over a $3 million settlement with another ex-employee with whom he had a consensual affair. McMahon stepped down but returned as WWE chairperson in January 2023 after the investigation concluded.
Ms. Grant’s lawsuit also criticized the WWE’s special committee investigation, calling it a “sham” and accusing the company of attempting to cover up the matter. The legal proceedings are scheduled for March 11, 2024. McMahon, a wrestling icon, has been a pivotal figure in WWE’s growth into a global media powerhouse, broadcasting in over 180 countries and 30 languages.
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